Empowerment of Rural Women through MGNREGA: A Study of Idukki District in Kerala

Empowerment of Rural Women through MGNREGA: A Study of Idukki District in Kerala

Anjumol M.R*

Abstract

The government of India has implemented the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) as a wage employment program throughout the country. Enacted by legislation on August 25, 2005, the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) was renamed as MGNREGA. The primary objective of this scheme is to enhance the livelihood security of households in rural areas by ensuring at least 100 days of guaranteed employment in each financial year. In recent years, MGNREGA has had a positive impact on the empowerment and employment patterns of women. This study aims to examine women's empowerment, the issues and challenges associated with it, and the overall impact of the MGNREGA scheme in India. The implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act in India marks a significant milestone in rural governance. The act has served as a tool for empowering the most vulnerable village communities, who often face social exclusion and political marginalization. It has brought about a positive transformation in the lives of rural women, contributing significantly to their lifestyle improvements and economic conditions. This study is based on empirical and analytical research, utilizing both primary and secondary data sources.Top of Form

Keywords: MGNREGA, Rural Development, Women Empowerment

* Full-Time Research  Scholar, Department of Political Science and Development Administration, Gandhigram Rural Institute – Deemed to be University, Gandhigram, Tamil Nadu-624302, Email: anjurajan004@gmail.com